Masters of Science Programs

Nutrition is the systematic study of the science of nutrition from the cellular level to the application of nutrition principles by human beings in changing environments.

The nutrition program prepares professionals to serve the public as teachers, researchers, and health professionals. The curricula in nutrition qualify graduates for teaching and/or research positions in colleges, universities, government, and industry. Other graduates serve as nutrition consultants in national, state, and local public health agencies. Nutritionists need to have a strong background in chemistry, biology, and other natural sciences. Those in applied areas also must have a fundamental knowledge of the social and behavioral sciences and educational philosophy and practice.

A nutrition student interested in graduate study and research attains depth in nutrition science and uses electives to build strength in nutrition and related fields. Advanced courses typically include research methodology, statistics or biostatistics, biochemistry, and physiology. Those interested in community and public health nutrition emphasize public health and social/behavioral sciences and education; students also complete concurrent and block field experiences.

Requirements of the M.S. Thesis option are provided in the Graduate Handbook.

These requirements include a minimum of 33 hours of coursework, including core courses in nutrition, research methods and statistics. In addition, the student works with a member of the faculty and their thesis committee on an original research project. The research project is documented by the preparation of a thesis. The student also performs an oral defense of the thesis.

Requirements of the M.S. Non-thesis option are also provided in the Graduate Handbook.

The philosophy underlying the non-thesis option is to provide students with the opportunity to include in their programs ample coursework assisting them in meeting their career goals and objectives. The requirements include a minimum of 36 hours of coursework, including core courses in nutrition, research methods and statistics. All non-thesis Master's degree students must pass a written comprehensive examination which covers all coursework taken toward completion of the degree. Master’s degree candidates in Nutrition must successfully complete a culminating experience as part of the requirements for graduation. In addition to a final comprehensive examination (non-thesis: written; thesis: oral) a culminating experience is required. Specific examples of culminating experiences include: 1) dietetic internship; 2) case study integrated with a seminar open to all faculty and students; 3) presentation of research project results at a regional or national scientific meeting; or 4) research or demonstration project which is closely coordinated with the student’s Masters degree committee members and major professor and results in a seminar presentation and publication quality paper.

Requirements of the Dual MS-MPH are provided in the Graduate Handbook.

A dual degree candidate must satisfy requirements for both the MS (Public Health Nutrition option) and the MPH degree, as well as the requirements for the dual degree. These requirements include a minimum of 60 credits, which enables the student to complete both degrees in less time than to complete both degrees independently. The MS portion of the dual degree can be completed as a thesis or a non - thesis. The MPH portion is completed as non - thesis.

Contact the Department of Nutrition

1215 W. Cumberland Ave.
229 Jessie Harris Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-1920

Brenda Hart
bhart57@utk.edu

Phone: (865) 974-5445
Fax: (865) 974-3491